Buick Electra (4th generation)
The pinnacle of Buick's full-sized luxury, powered by the massive 455 cubic-inch V8.
- Power
- 225 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$32k
About the Buick Electra
The 1973 Buick Electra 225 represented the height of American 'land yacht' luxury before the 1973 oil crisis forced a shift toward downsizing. Built on the GM C-body platform, it featured a massive 455 cubic-inch (7.5-litre) V8 engine, which by 1973 had been detuned to meet new emissions standards and net horsepower ratings. The '225' designation originally referred to the car's length in inches, though by 1973 it had grown even longer due to federally mandated 5-mph impact bumpers. It is remembered for its exceptionally smooth 'Cloud 9' ride and opulent interior, serving as a more affordable alternative to a Cadillac.
Buick Electra specs
The Buick Electra produces 225 bhp (168 kW) and 488 Nm (360 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Electra |
| Generation | Fourth Generation (4th generation) |
| Trim | 7.5 |
| Years | 1971–1976 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $5,400 when new |
| Engine | 7.5-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 7,468 cc (7.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 225 bhp (168 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 488 Nm (360 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 4,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,250 kg (4,960 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 100 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Electra worth?
A typical Buick Electra is estimated to be worth $8,500 – $32,000 (about £6,300 – £24,000).
Its original price when new was about $5,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Electra rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Electra is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 26 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Electra fun facts
- The 1973 model was the first Electra to feature the new energy-absorbing front bumpers, which added significant length and weight to the vehicle.
- Despite its size, the 455 V8 was known for its massive low-end torque, allowing the heavy coupe to cruise effortlessly at highway speeds.
- The Electra 225 was often nicknamed the 'Deuce and a Quarter' by enthusiasts, a reference to its original 225-inch length.
